Karen Neal-Brown

From: Chicago, IL
Education: Kennedy-King College (Chicago, Illinois); Bethel College (Mishawaka, Indiana); St. Mary’s College (Notre Dame, Indiana). Certification and additional study in CPR, biology, early childhood and religion.
Teaching: Twelve years total, eight years at CSPC 

The Community School of the Park Cities offers a preschool program for children aged 3 - 4 years old. This class provides a developmentally appropriate curriculum based on thematic units, and children work at an appropriate level of development and cognitive understanding. 

Our preschool teachers prepare weekly lesson plans based on areas of needed development such as cognitive, language, fine and gross motor skills, self help, and social emotional development. Daily activities include circle time, center time, art, dramatic play, blocks, and math to name just a few. 

For our preschool students, we also offer enrichment classes in which parents can choose to let their children participate. For these classes we bring in talented experts in special topics, such as music and dance, to bring more variety to the kids' day. Currently our preschool enrichment classes include:  

  • Music Class - No extra monthly fee
  • Computer Class - No extra monthly fee
  • Stretch N Grow - No extra monthly fee
  • Kidokinetics-Sports Program - Extra monthly fee
  • Stretch N Grow Dance Class - Extra monthly fee
Meet Our Preschool Teachers
Pre-School
Brenda Kneip

From: Arkansas
Education: University of Arkansas, BSE and MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching). Additional study in Special Education, English as a Second Language, Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education.
Teaching: 12 years total, eight years at CSPC 
Teaching Favorite: “ I love being with children. I love sharing in the excitement with children when they learn new concepts.”

Classroom Highlights


  • Low ratios of 1:9
  • Caregivers with degrees in child development or related field with additional training and education in early childhood education.
  • Twice yearly assessments to make sure that the children are meeting age level expectations..
  • Individual activities planned to help each child reach his/her full potential.
  • Regular communication with parents to let them know how their child is progressing.
  • Transition to the next class is dependent upon age, development and space.
  • A balance of child-initiated and teacher-led activities.
  • Individualized curriculum to help meet the needs of each child.

Teaching Favorite: “I was first a stay-at-home mom who enjoyed teaching my own child. I volunteered in school throughout her education. I learned that I enjoy educational environments and felt natural guiding young minds. I love seeing young minds develop as well as witnessing their unique personalities and independence unfold. Ultimately, having a child to nurture led me to discover my broader love of teaching. I really LIKE and enjoy children. Likewise, I appreciate the way they respond and relate to me. I especially love the hugs I get from my group after reading them a story. We have a great time together. I feel my work with children is valuable and important.”